Coyer brings experience to Bucs

The Bucs, who have seen four assistant coaches depart for various reasons this month, replaced another Thursday by hiring former Denver defensive coordinator Larry Coyer, the team announced.

Coyer's title will be assistant head coach/defensive line. He effectively will be responsible for coaching the line and likely will play an active role in assisting his longtime friend, defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin.

Coyer spent the past seven seasons with the Broncos, the last four as defensive coordinator, before being fired after the season by coach Mike Shanahan. Immediately after his firing, Coyer found a great demand for his services and finalized the deal with Tampa Bay earlier today.

Coyer replaces Jethro Franklin, who last week was fired by the Bucs after a significant dropoff in the production of the defensive line.

Coyer has a combined 42 years of coaching experience in the college and pro ranks and is well respected in NFL coaching circles.

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